The City of Mesa Office of Economic Development has injected some fresh talent into its department with the addition of three new staff members. Revealed in a recent announcement by the City, Amanda Elliott has taken on the role of Deputy Director for Small Business Services and Administration, with Benjamin Snow stepping up as Deputy Director for Business Development, and Hayley Freestone completing the trio as an Economic Development Specialist.
According to the word on the municipal street, or rather, the official statement from Jaye O'Donnell, the city's Economic Development Director, the new hires represent a significant boon for Mesa's commercial endeavors. "We are thrilled to welcome Amanda, Ben and Hayley to our team," ODonnell said. "Each of them brings exceptional talent, vision and dedication to public service." She further added that their contributions are expected to be pivotal in the city's ongoing growth as a center for business and community innovation.
Amanda Elliott is not a new face to the scene, arriving with over two decades of leadership experience from the public and private sectors. Her expertise has been sharpened on projects such as the revitalization of Gilbert's downtown Heritage District, and she has received various distinctions, including an AAED Distinguished by Excellence Award and a place amongst the "40 Under 40" by the Phoenix Business Journal. Education-wise, Elliott is well prepared, holding a Master of Public Administration from Park University and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Arizona State University to top it off.
Benjamin Snow's background cuts a swath through commercial real estate development, urban renewal, and economic strategy. Before joining Team Mesa, he's carved out a hefty slice of experience as Director of Economic Health and Housing for the City of Greeley, Colorado, among other posts. Snow is also an alumnus of Arizona State University and is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), credentials that Mesa anticipates will help him in enhancing the quality of life within the City by way of economic development.
Lastly, Hayley Freestone brings a palette of experience from diverse industry backgrounds, including engineering and construction. An athlete and graduate of William Penn University, Freestone wields a competitive spirit that she's channeled into non-profit endeavors, currently serving as President of the Young Professionals Board for Treasure House. Her energy is seen as a driving force to foster inclusive economic growth throughout Mesa.
For additional details on the new appointments and Mesa's business strategies, check out their official Economic Development website.
